Stones sign striker Elliott Benyon from Hayes & Yeading United
Wealdstone have signed Elliott Benyon from Hayes & Yeading United where he was leading scorer for the National League South side last season. The experienced 28 year-old striker was United’s Player of the Year last campaign; he originally joined Hayes & Yeading in January 2015 on a short term loan from Vanarama National side Torquay United,
Benyon began his career as a trainee at Bristol City and then moved to Torquay United on loan making a total of 22 appearances for the Gulls, scoring five times in the 2007–08 season and also made an appearance at Wembley in the FA Trophy final at the end of that campaign.
Benyon found a regular berth for Torquay in the 2008–09 season, making a total of 36 league appearances. That season culminated with a second Wembley appearance for Benyon when the Gulls beat Cambridge United 2–0 in the Play-off final. He grabbed 15 goals in all competitions and helped Torquay survive a difficult first season back in the league.
He scored 14 goals the following season attracting the interest of several clubs with not only his eye for a goal but also his work-rate in chasing and harrying defenders. In January 2011, he signed a contract with Swindon Town and scored an injury time equaliser on his debut against Rochdale.
Benyon had a loan spell at Wycombe Wanderers and scored his first goal in the League Cup against Nottingham Forest. He then moved on to play for Southend United before returning to Torquay.
Wealdstone Manager Gordon Bartlett said: ‘It has taken a little while, but we are delighted Elliot has decided to sign. Now in his late 20’s, he has good experience and has always impressed us with his ability and work rate. Elliot scored 17 goals in the National South last season and he is comfortable playing as a lone striker or with a partner and we believe he displays exactly the attitude and qualities we are looking for to strengthen our squad’
CEO Mark Winkworth commented: “It has been our intention to make quality signings right through the spine of the team this summer. Elliot is a proven striker and is such a hard worker on the pitch. I am sure that enthusiasm for hard work will rub off on everybody, and will be recognised by the supporters.”
